PERSEVERANCE
Pastor Jeremy Helmuth
2 Thessalonians 1:1-4
Sept 29-Oct 1, 2023
Reaching MATURITY
Christians are called to grow in their faith. But what does it mean to be mature? What are the criteria with which we can assess whether or not someone is healthy, whole, and complete in their spiritual walk with Christ? The first few lines of this letter give us the standards.
is the surest
Daily
which then
Daily
which then
The “GOOD” in PERSEVERANCE
The word that Paul uses for perseverance means to “remain under”. Who are we to “remain under” when we are going through a trial, and what does it mean for us “remain under” during the trouble?
Your
if you
Discussion Questions
Am I more LOVING than when I first became a Christian?
Read through 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and take special note of the 15+ characteristics of love presented in this passage. Then start asking yourself if these characteristics describe you. For example, ask yourself, “Am I more PATIENT with others than I was years ago?” Here is another question, “Would others say that I am more KIND than I was in my past?” This might be one of the most sobering tests you will ever take. If you are not growing in these traits of love, why not? Is your walk with Christ not consistent?
Why didn’t Jesus use the word “GRACE” more?
Are you surprised that the word “grace” is used more than 150x in the New Testament letters, only a few times in the gospel accounts, and only one time by Jesus (Luke 6:32-34)? While Jesus didn’t use this word much, He showed grace to everyone around Him. In what ways did Jesus show grace (kindness) to those around Him?
Why is “PEACE” the “GOOD NEWS” of Christ?
Read Luke 10:1-24. A disciple is to bring “peace” to a house they visit; that “peace” is actually the “good news” message of the cross. Read these verses about “peace with God” (Rom 5:1; 16:20; Ps 29:11; Job 22:21; Col 1:20; 2 Cor 5:18; Eph 2:16). When is the last time you have tried to bring this kind of “peace” to a nonbeliever? Do you love others enough to present the way of salvation to them?
Do you have what it takes to PERSEVERE?
What must we do in order to “remain under” Christ (Gal 6:9; Phil 1:6; 3:13-14; Hebrews 3:14; 10:36; 12:2; Rom 5:3-5; Mt 10:22; 24:13; James 1:2-4; Rev 2:2-3; 2:10; 2:19; 14:12; 1 Cor 13:7; 15:58; 16:13; 2 Thess 3:13)? Are you fixing your eyes on Jesus? Do you hold onto your convictions? What are your goals in life? What good are you focused on accomplishing that keeps you going even though you are weary?